Pre-Operative Care Instructions for Urogynecology Surgery

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1) Initial Consultation for Urogynecology Surgery:

When you visit our Center for your initial Consultation, please be sure to provide the following:

An accurate medical history containing any and all pertinent information. Preferably, bring a copy of your current medical conditions/medical charts from your primary care physician.

A list of all the medications, vitamins, supplements, and/or herbal products you take.

These are very important as your medical history and medication intake must be carefully reviewed prior to creating a treatment plan and surgical appointment.

2) Reduce Complication Risks Early On for Urogynecology Surgery:

Discontinue using aspirin (including medications/products that contain aspirin), Ibuprofen, and Vitamin E. Your surgeon may direct you to quit taking others as well.

Many medications/vitamins/herbs/supplements which act as blood thinners that may cause possible excessive bleeding, bruising, and other avoidable complications.

Abstain from smoking for about 1-2 weeks before and after your surgery. Cigarettes impair blood circulation, discourage healing, and promote scarring.

Abstain from drinking alcohol for about 1-2 weeks before and after your surgery. Alcohol has an effect on liver function as well as the efficacy of antibiotic(s).

3) Pre-Operative Consultation for Urogynecology Surgery:

Before you are admitted or undergo surgery, you will meet again with your surgeon. At this time, you should notify your surgeon of any health developments such as influenza, bladder infections, diarrhea, etc.

During this appointment, you will meet with your anesthesiologist. He or she will talk about anesthetic options and what he/she feels is most suitable for you (based on health condition(s), prior history, and your surgical procedure(s)).

3.1) Pre-Operative Medication Instructions for Urogynecology Surgery

3.1.1) One Week Before Surgery:

DISCONTINUE taking any and all aspirin and aspirin-containing medicines (e.g., Anacin, Excedrin®, Pepto-Bismol®). Check any cold or pain medication to make certain aspirin is not contained.

STOP smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol for about 1-2 weeks prior to surgery.

YOU MAY DRINK up to eight ounces of clear liquids up until 6 hours before your surgery appointment. Clear liquids include water, pulp-free juices (apple juice, grape juice), black tea, and black coffee.

3.2.2) 6 Hours Before Surgery:

TAKE NOTHING PER ORAL (NPO) except for maintenance medications that are approved by the above guidelines and/or your surgeon.

Before undergoing an operative or diagnostic procedure under Sedation or General Anesthesia, you must refrain from eating, drinking, or taking anything per oral following your surgeon’s guidelines.

This precaution is taken to ensure your safety. When you are unconscious, complications from nausea or vomiting must be avoided. Should you vomit while unconscious, stomach fluids can flood the lungs causing serious problems such as pneumonia. These complications can easily result in an extended hospital stay and unforeseen expenses.

For your safety, be sure to follow the NPO time given by your surgeon or anesthesiologist.

If your surgical procedure does not entail a hospital stay, we are more than happy to assist you in booking a hotel or providing accommodation recommendations. A few hotels located near the hospital offer special rates for our patients. Feel free to contact us for more information.